This site is the number one tour destination for those visiting Athens and one of the most interesting historical sites in the world. The modern village of Delphi is a very popular destination all year long and during the winter is it flooded with people who go skiing at the ski slopes of Parnassus.

Getting There Delphi is a three-hour drive from Athens. You can either get there via public bus or rent a car and drive yourself. There are many organized tours that offer you a fixed price that includes the transportation and sightseeing tour guide.

Getting around

The modern small town of Delphi is situated on the slopes of mountain Parnassus and can be easily explored on foot. Even the archaeological sites are just a 10 minutes’ walk from there, so unless you feel like exploring the nearby villages there is no need really for another mean other than walking!

Where to Stay in Delphi The modern village of Delphi offers a variety of traditional chalets to let as well as a variety of hotels. Additionally for those of you who love nature there is organized camping facilities on a walking distance from the main archaeological sites. Alternatively you can reside at one of the nearby sea-side towns of Itea and Kirra. Bear in mind that these towns are at an approximate distance of 10 km from the Archaeological site, however they offer walking access to the beach and sea-side leisure.

Beaches The nearest beach from Delphi is at a distance of about 10km, in the towns of Itea and Kirra. They are sandy beaches with access to local fish tavernas and cafes.

Highlights

The highlights in Delphi are without doubt the archaeological treasures found in the main preserved site. The Temple dedicated to Apollo is one of the main sites of great significance. The Ancient theatre was built in the 4th century BC and it is situated further above, while on the same hill, as the Temple of Apollo. This location provided the audience with the spectacular view of the sanctuary as well as the olive tree valley. The theater has been restored to accommodate ancient plays and other cultural events especially during the summer! So if you plan on visiting make sure you keep an eye for an event at the ancient theatre, it is an unforgettable experience.

The Athena Pronea Sanctuary is located to the southeast of the Temple of Apollo and it is the first mark of Delphi visible to people coming to the east. This is a particularly important site, as people coming to ask for an oracle would first offer a sacrifice at that the Athena Pronea who was considered the guardian of Pythia. It is made up of several altars, temples, two treasuries and the Tholos, a round construction which was pretty unusual in terms of Greek architecture. The Ancient Stadium is located at the highest spot of the hill, above the Temple of Apollo and it is dated back to the 5th century BC. Its present form derived after works during the 2nd century AD when the stones seats and arched entrance were added. This stadium hosted the Pythian and Panhellenic games, precursors of the modern Olympics and could seat around 6.500 spectators.

Next to the site you will find the Archaeological Museum which exhibits findings from the site as well as the entire region, including marble statues, coins and golden jewelry. The highlight of this museum is the famous statue of the Bronze Charioteer. For those of you who love hiking, you can hike the ancient path from Delphi down to the seaside village of Kirra, during which you will cross the astonishing ancient valley of olive trees. If you happen to visit during the winter bear in mind that Delphi is the main starting base for those who wish to go skiing at the resorts of mountain Parnassus.